Gray or fawn colored beetle. Reddish-brown head. Long legged and slender, 1/2 inch long.
Blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, cabbage, beans, beet and pepper.
Feeds on foliage, buds and flowers.
Eastern United States.
Rose chafer larvae overwinter in the soil. As temperatures rise in the spring larvae move up towards the soil surface and pupate. In a few weeks adult beetles emerge and begin feeding for a period of about four to six weeks. Females deposit groups of 6-40 eggs about six inches below the soil surface in sandy or grassy areas. Larvae hatch in one to three weeks, depending on temperature, and begin to feed on roots. One generation occurs annually in Virginia.
Hand-pick beetles where found.
A temporary cheesecloth fence (slightly higher than the plant) can be used to deter the beetles. The beetles seem not to fly over the fence.
Start treatment with a registered insecticide when cut buds or leaf holes are seen. This is usually just after beginning of bloom (late March or early April). Treat at weekly intervals as needed. Rotate strawberries to a part of the garden that has not had strawberries in the last year.
Notice: Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label when using any pesticide. If you have any doubt, please contact your local Extension agent or pesticide dealer for the latest information on pesticide label changes.
Disclaimer: Commercial products named on this site are for informational purposes only. Virginia Cooperative Extension does not endorse these products and does not intend discrimination against other products which also may be suitable.
Prepared by Alexandra Spring and Eric Day (Modified from a publication by the USDA)